Bhuvneshwar Kumar last played for India in ODIs in January 2022.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar should be part of India's 2027 ODI World Cup roster, according to former spinner R Ashwin, who was a member of the team that won the 2011 ICC Men's ODI World Cup.
Ashwin, who retired from international cricket in December 2024 and is now a cricket expert, thinks Bhuvneshwar's experience will be crucial for India in the 50-over event next year in South Africa, Zimbabwe and Namibia.
In order to be ready for the big event, he even stated that he would personally encourage the pacer, who is currently out of favor, to participate in every competition that is offered.
“Bhuvneshwar Kumar is a yes. I would communicate to him, get him to play all the tournaments – first-class cricket, the Vijay Hazare Trophy, everything. And get him primed going to South Africa. I think we would need him there,” Ashwin said on Cricinfo.
Bhuvneshwar Kumar has played 121 ODIs for India and taken 141 wickets since making his India debut in 2013. However, he last played for India in 2022 in an ODI against South Africa..
But Bhuvneshwar Kumar has done well in the last two IPL tournaments for Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB), taking 17 and 28 wickets, respectively, and helping RCB win two consecutive IPL titles.
Thanks to his brilliant performance in IPL 2026, many expected Bhuvneshwar Kumar to make his India team return; however, the Indian selectors have ignored experience, choosing to invest in youth and pace as they prepare for the 2027 ICC World Cup.